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<div style='text-align:justify;'>The term ‘ritucharya’ is derived from two different words ‘ritu’ meaning season and ‘charya’ means ‘regimen’. Seasonal regimen prescribed for preservation of health and prevention of [[Vyadhi|diseases]] is termed as ‘ritucharya’.     

<p style="text-align:justify;">The term ‘ritucharya’ is derived from two different words: ‘ritu’ meaning season and ‘charya’ meaning ‘regimen’. Seasonal regimen prescribed for preservation of health and prevention of [[Vyadhi|diseases]] is termed as ‘ritucharya’.     

 

[[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]], the science of [[Ayu|life]] defined the human [[Sharira|body (''sharira'')]] is always in a state of change towards degeneration called as [[Sharira|''sharira'' (human body)]] [Vaidyaka shabdasindhu]. Ancient scriptures were aware of astronomy; they keenly observed the change in seasons with respect to the sun, moon, stars, wind, and rainfall. The concept of ''“yat pinde tat brahmande‘''- whatever there is in the environment is also there is the human body is applied in understanding health. This leads to appreciating changes in the human body according to seasons and regimens are made accordingly. The seasonal regimen's main aim is to prevent diseases due to the derangement of dosha. Hence ritucharya is one of the ways to be in synchronize with ever-changing nature and being healthy all at the same time. </div>

[[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]], the science of [[Ayu|life]] defined the human [[Sharira|body (''sharira'')]] is always in a state of change towards degeneration called as [[Sharira|''sharira'' (human body)]] [Vaidyaka shabdasindhu]. Ancient scriptures were aware of astronomy; they keenly observed the change in seasons with respect to the sun, moon, stars, wind, and rainfall. The concept of ''“yat pinde tat brahmande‘''- whatever there is in the environment is also there is the human [[Sharira|body]] is applied in understanding health. This leads to appreciating changes in the human [[Sharira|body]] according to seasons and regimens are made accordingly. The seasonal regimen's main aim is to prevent [[Vyadhi|diseases]] due to the derangement of [[Dosha|dosha]]. Hence ritucharya is one of the ways to be in synchronize with ever-changing nature and being healthy all at the same time. </p>

{{Infobox  

{{Infobox  

|data2 = P.Sudhakar Reddy¹<br/>Beena MD²<br/>Nimmi A.N.¹  

|data2 = P.Sudhakar Reddy¹<br/>Beena MD²<br/>Nimmi A.N.¹  

|label3 = Reviewer  

|label3 = Reviewer  

|data3 = Basisht G.³,   

|data3 = [[Gopal Basisht|Basisht G.]]³,   

|label4 = Editor  

|label4 = Editor  

|data4 = Deole Y.S.⁴  

|data4 = [[Yogesh Deole|Deole Y.S.]]⁴  

|label5 = Affiliations  

|label5 = Affiliations  

|data5 = ¹ Department of Post Graduate Studies in Swasthavritta, JSS Ayurveda Medical College, Mysuru, Karnataka, India <br/>² Department of Post Graduate Studies in Kayachikitsa, JSS Ayurveda Medical College, Mysuru, Karnataka, India <br/>³ Rheumatologist, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A. <br/>⁴ Department of Kayachikitsa, G. J. Patel Institute of Ayurvedic Studies and Research, New Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat, India  

|data5 = ¹ Department of Post Graduate Studies in Swasthavritta, JSS Ayurveda Medical College, Mysuru, Karnataka, India <br/>² Department of Post Graduate Studies in Kayachikitsa, JSS Ayurveda Medical College, Mysuru, Karnataka, India <br/>³ Rheumatologist, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A. <br/>⁴ Department of Kayachikitsa, G. J. Patel Institute of Ayurvedic Studies and Research, New Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat, India  

== Nirukti (etymology) ==

== Nirukti (etymology) ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>In Ayurveda, the season is represented by the term ''kala''. Kala is a broad term. In one context it is mentioned as seasons, while in some other context, it merely represents time. The term ritu is the most suitable term to explain seasons. The term ''ritu'' refers to a specific period having a cyclic rotation. In the context of ritucharya, ritu is mentioned as the term in which nature expresses itself in sequence, in specific forms of a two-month duration (dvau masau). [A.Hr. Sutra Sthana 3/1 Hemadri]. Charya means regimen or action. Dalhana defines ritucharya as the regimen that should be followed concerning seasons.[Su.Sa. Sutra Sthana 6/1 Dalhana] Vagbhata defines it as the changes in diet and practices with respect to changes in climate conditions like heat, cold, rain etc. [A.Sa.Sutra Sthana 3/1 Hemadri] </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>In [[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]], the season is represented by the term ''[[Kala|kala]]''. [[Kala|Kala]] is a broad term. In one context it is mentioned as seasons, while in some other context, it merely represents time. The term ritu is the most suitable term to explain seasons. The term ''ritu'' refers to a specific period having a cyclic rotation. In the context of ritucharya, ritu is mentioned as the term in which nature expresses itself in sequence, in specific forms of a two-month duration (dvau masau). [A.Hr. Sutra Sthana 3/1 Hemadri]. Charya means regimen or action. Dalhana defines ritucharya as the regimen that should be followed concerning seasons. [Su.Sa. Sutra Sthana 6/1 Dalhana] Vagbhata defines it as the changes in [[Ahara vidhi|diet]] and practices with respect to changes in climate conditions like heat, cold, rain etc. [A.Sa. Sutra Sthana 3/1 Hemadri] </div>

== Concept of ritucharya (seasonal regimen) ==

== Concept of ritucharya (seasonal regimen) ==

=== Seasonal regimen: ===

=== Seasonal regimen: ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The strength and lusture is enhanced by following suitable diet and regimen for every season. [Cha. Sa. Sutra Sthana 6/3] The year is divided into six parts according to seasons. The northward movement of the sun and its act of dehydration brings about three seasons beginning from late winter to summer. The southward movement of sun and its act of hydration gives rise to the rainy season to early winter. [Cha. Sa. Sutra Sthana 6/4]  Qualitative dietetics includes the wholesome and unwholesome diet and lifestyle regimen as per seasons. [Cha. Sa. Sutra Sthana 6/51] </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The strength and lusture is enhanced by following suitable [[Ahara vidhi|diet]] and regimen for every season. [Cha. Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 6/3] The year is divided into six parts according to seasons. The northward movement of the sun and its act of dehydration brings about three seasons beginning from late winter to summer. The southward movement of sun and its act of hydration gives rise to the rainy season to early winter. [Cha. Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 6/4]  Qualitative dietetics includes the wholesome and unwholesome [[Ahara vidhi|diet]] and lifestyle regimen as per seasons. [Cha. Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 6/51] </div>

=== Seasonal purification: ===

=== Seasonal purification: ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Purpose of seasonal purification procedures is to maintain normalcy of dohsa, dhatus in different seasons. One should eliminate the accumulated dosha in the first month of spring, rainy and winter. [Cha. Sa. Sutra Sthan 7/46]. To prevent seasonal diseases, doshas accumulated during hemanta (December – February) be eliminated in the month of Chaitra (March-April). Those accumulated during summer(April-June) in the month of Shravana (July-August). The dosha accumulated during railny season (August- October) should  be eliminated in the month of Margasheersha (November-Octomber)[Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 7/45]. The elimination therapies should be administered only in seasons with moderate heat and cold nature. In other seasons having extreme cold, heat or rain, such therapies should not be administered. Moderate seasons are enjoyable and they do not adversely affect the conditions of the body and drugs. [Cha. Sa.Vimana Sthana 8/126]  However, in emergency situations, when the therapy is utmost needed,  one should administer the therapy with great care after modifying the seasonal effects sufficiently by artificial means, producing qualities contrary to the seasons and by making the measure appropriate in standard potency with variation in combination, processing and quantity. [Cha. Sa.Vimana Sthana 8/126] </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Purpose of seasonal purification procedures is to maintain normalcy of [[dosha]], [[Dhatu|dhatus]] in different seasons. One should eliminate the accumulated [[Dosha|dosha]] in the first month of spring, rainy and winter. [Cha. Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 7/46] To prevent seasonal [[Vyadhi|diseases]], [[Dosha|doshas]] accumulated during [[Hemanta|hemanta]] (December – February) be eliminated in the month of [[Chaitra|Chaitra]] (March-April). Those accumulated during summer(April-June) in the month of [[Shravana|Shravana]] (July-August). The [[Dosha|dosha]] accumulated during rainy season (August- October) should  be eliminated in the month of Margasheersha (November-Octomber)[Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 7/45]. The elimination therapies should be administered only in seasons with moderate heat and cold nature. In other seasons having extreme cold, heat or rain, such therapies should not be administered. Moderate seasons are enjoyable and they do not adversely affect the conditions of the [[Sharira|body]] and drugs. [Cha. Sa. [[Vimana Sthana]] 8/126]  However, in emergency situations, when the therapy is utmost needed,  one should administer the therapy with great care after modifying the seasonal effects sufficiently by artificial means, producing qualities contrary to the seasons and by making the measure appropriate in standard potency with variation in combination, processing and quantity. [Cha. Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/126] </div>

=== Seasonal conditions in nasal administration therapy: ===

=== Seasonal conditions in nasal administration therapy: ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>In summer, the nasal administration therapy should be given in the morning. In winter, it should be given during mid-day. In rainy season, it should be given when the sky is clear and not cloudy. In the case of an emergency, it can be given in the seasons other than early rains, autumn and spring by artificially creating the congenial environment [Cha. Sa. Siddhi Sthana 2/23] </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>In summer, the nasal administration therapy should be given in the morning. In winter, it should be given during mid-day. In rainy season, it should be given when the sky is clear and not cloudy. In the case of an emergency, it can be given in the seasons other than early rains, autumn and spring by artificially creating the congenial environment. [Cha. Sa. [[Siddhi Sthana]] 2/23] </div>

=== Ritusandhi (period of climatic transition): ===

=== Ritusandhi (period of climatic transition): ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The last seven days of a season and the first seven days of the next season is considered as period of transition of climate (ritusandhi). In this period, one should taper the regimens of the previous season and practice those of the next season in a gradual, phased manner. Immediate abandoning and adoption of regimens causes various diseases due to improper adoption. [A.Hr. Sutra Sthan3/58] </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The last seven days of a season and the first seven days of the next season is considered as period of transition of climate ([[Ritusandhi|ritusandhi]]). In this period, one should taper the regimens of the previous season and practice those of the next season in a gradual, phased manner. Immediate abandoning and adoption of regimens causes various [[Vyadhi|diseases]] due to improper adoption. [A. Hr. Sutra Sthana 3/58] </div>

=== Seasons, constellations and Sun signs: ===

=== Seasons, constellations and Sun signs: ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>When the sun is in aries and taurus constellations, it is greeshma ritu (summer April-May). When in Gemini and cancer, it is pravrit (early rains, June-July). When in leo and virgo, it is rainy season, (August-September). When it is in libra and scorpio, it is sharada (Autumn, October-November). When it is in sagitarrus and capricorn, it is Hemanta (winter, December-January). When the sun is in aquarius and piscus, it is vasanta (Spring, February-March). [Sha.Sa.2/25-26]  This also identifies sunsigns according to the birth.  </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>When the sun is in aries and taurus constellations, it is grishma ritu (summer April-May). When in Gemini and cancer, it is pravrit (early rains, June-July). When in leo and virgo, it is rainy season, (August-September). When it is in libra and scorpio, it is sharada (Autumn, October-November). When it is in sagitarrus and capricorn, it is hemanta (winter, December-January). When the sun is in aquarius and piscus, it is vasanta (Spring, February-March). [Sha.Sa. 2/25-26]  This also identifies sun signs according to the birth.  </div>

=== Concept of Yamadamshtra: ===

=== Concept of Yamadamshtra: ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The last eight days of kartika masa (third week of November) and  the first eight days of avagrahayana (fourth week of November) are known as yamadamshtra kaala. During this period, one can be healthy if he takes only small quantity of food. [Sha.Sa. 2/30] </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The last eight days of kartika masa (third week of November) and  the first eight days of avagrahayana (fourth week of November) are known as [[Yamadamshtra|yamadamshtra]] [[kala]]. During this period, one can be healthy if he takes only small quantity of food. [Sha.Sa. 2/30] </div>

=== Concept of ritu haritaki: ===

=== Concept of ritu haritaki: ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Seasonal changes shall be considered while taking some medicines for specific actions. A person, who wishes to attain the vitalizing actions of haritaki shall consume it with specific substances as per seasons. Haritaki shall be taken with salt during rainy season, with sugar during post monsoon period, with dry ginger during winter, with pepper during autumn with honey during spring and with jaggery during summer [Bha.Pra.Purva khanda 6/34]  </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Seasonal changes shall be considered while taking some medicines for specific actions. A person, who wishes to attain the vitalizing actions of haritaki shall consume it with specific substances as per seasons. Haritaki shall be taken with salt during rainy season, with sugar during post monsoon period, with dry ginger during winter, with pepper during autumn with honey during spring and with jaggery during summer. [Bha.Pra.Purva khanda 6/34]  </div>

{| class="wikitable"

{| class="wikitable"

|+ Table: Anupana according to seasons for consuming haritaki

|+ Table: Anupana according to seasons for consuming haritaki

! Anupana(vehicle)

! Anupana(vehicle)

|-

|-

| Varsha(rainy)

| [[Varsha|Varsha(rainy)]]

| Saindhava lavana (rocksalt)

| Saindhava lavana (rocksalt)

|-

|-

| Sharada(autumn)

| [[Sharad|Sharada(autumn)]]

| Sharkara (sugar)

| Sharkara (sugar)

|-

|-

| Hemanta (winter)

| [[Hemanta|Hemanta (winter)]]

| Shunthi (dry ginger)

| [[Shunthi|Shunthi (dry ginger)]]

|-

|-

| Shishira(late winter)

| [[Shishira|Shishira(late winter)]]

| Pippali (long pepper)

| [[Pippali|Pippali (long pepper)]]

|-

|-

| Vasanta(spring)

| [[Vasanta|Vasanta(spring)]]

| Madhu (honey)

| Madhu (honey)

|-

|-

| Grishma (summer)

| [[Grishma|Grishma (summer)]]

| Guda (jaggery)

| Guda (jaggery)

|-

|-

== Epidemic or diseases affecting communities (Janamara) ==

== Epidemic or diseases affecting communities (Janamara) ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The concept of seasonal regimens is applied to understand epidemics, their spread and favourable factors for their transmission. If the specific climatic characteristics are not observed in a season or abnormal features are observed, then it can be an alarming sign of an epidemic. Abnormal climatic conditions can favor the transmission of diseases. For example, when in any particular region, the cloud does not rain in rainy season, but rains in the winter season; it is in such times of seasonal derangement that the epidemic or the killer diseases of population commences or sets forth its activities. [Bhe. Sa. Sutra Sthana 13/8] </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The concept of seasonal regimens is applied to understand epidemics, their spread and favourable factors for their transmission. If the specific climatic characteristics are not observed in a season or abnormal features are observed, then it can be an alarming sign of an epidemic. Abnormal climatic conditions can favor the transmission of [[Vyadhi|diseases]]. For example, when in any particular region, the cloud does not rain in rainy season, but rains in the winter season; it is in such times of seasonal derangement that the epidemic or the killer diseases of population commences or sets forth its activities. [Bhe. Sa. Sutra Sthana 13/8] </div>

=== Remedies for epidemic: ===

=== Remedies for epidemic: ===

=== Autumnal fever: ===

=== Autumnal fever: ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Body is unable to cope up with suddent climatic changes. By sudden increase in heat at the end of the rainy season, pitta gets mobilized and aggravated. This leads to fever that occurs mostly in the early winter. This is called sharada jvara or autumnal fever. [Bhe. Sa. Sutra Sthana 13/10]  </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>[[Sharira|Body]] is unable to cope up with suddent climatic changes. By sudden increase in heat at the end of the rainy season, [[Pitta|pitta]] gets mobilized and aggravated. This leads to fever that occurs mostly in the early winter. This is called sharada [[jwara]] or autumnal fever. [Bhe. Sa. Sutra Sthana 13/10]  </div>

=== Prevention of occurrences of diseases : ===

=== Prevention of occurrences of diseases : ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Taking honey habitually in rainy season, ghee in autumn , varuni (a type of alcohol preparation) with gandhaka in shishira (late winter), grape juice in spring and drinking milk in summer prevent the occurrence of diseases due to seasonal variations. [ Bhe. Sa. Sutra Sthana 14/16-17]  </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Taking honey habitually in rainy season, [[Ghee|ghee]] in autumn, varuni (a type of alcohol preparation) with gandhaka in [[Shishira|shishira]] (late winter), grape juice in spring and drinking milk in summer prevent the occurrence of [[Vyadhi|diseases]] due to seasonal variations. [ Bhe. Sa. Sutra Sthana 14/16-17]  </div>

== Importance of ritucharya  ==

== Importance of ritucharya  ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Kala or time constantly makes change in everything, so it is also known as ‘parinama’. This change brings abnormality or excellences of all substances including dosha, dhatu and rasa etc. This kala is the cause for division of seasons (ritu vibhaga), which directly influences the body  strength (deha bala), and digestion (agni bala) etc. So, if one who follows the regimens prescribed under each and every ritu, such person is never afflicted with seasonal diseases. He always remains as a healthy person. [Yogaratnakara 1/830] </div>  

<div style='text-align:justify;'>[[Kala|Kala]] or time constantly makes change in everything, so it is also known as ‘[[Parinama|parinama]]’. This change brings abnormality or excellences of all substances including [[Dosha|dosha]], [[Dhatu|dhatu]] and [[Rasa|rasa]] etc. This [[Kala|kala]] is the cause for division of seasons (ritu vibhaga), which directly influences the [[Shishira|body]] [[Bala|strength (deha bala)]], and digestion ([[Agni|agni]] bala) etc. So, if one who follows the regimens prescribed under each and every ritu, such person is never afflicted with seasonal [[Vyadhi|diseases]]. He always remains as a healthy person. [Yogaratnakara 1/830] </div>  

== Division of seasons ==

== Division of seasons ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Season is defined as a division of the year.<ref>Definition of seasons- www.memam-webster.com Retrieved 27 April 2018.</ref> It is  based on the changes in weather, ecology and the number of daylight hours in a given region. Seasons are the result of earth’s orbit around the Sun and Earth’s axial tilt relative to the ecliptic plane.<ref>Khavrus, V.; Shelevytsky, I. (2010). "Introduction to solar motion geometry on the basis of a simple model". Physics Education. 45 (6): 641–653. Bibcode:2010PhyEd..45..641K. doi:10.1088/0031-9120/45/6/010. S2CID 120966256. Archived from the original on 2016-09-16. Retrieved 2011-05-13.</ref> In temperate and polar regions, the seasons are marked by changes in the intensity of sunlight that reaches the earth’s surface, variations of which may cause animals to undergo hibernation or to migrate and plants to be dormant. various cultures define the number and nature of seasons based on regional variations. As such there are a number of both ,modern and historical cultures with varied number of seasons. The northern hemisphere experiences more direct sunlight during May, June and July as the hemisphere faces the sun. The same is true of the southern hemisphere in November, December and January. It is earth’s axial tilt that causes the sun to be higher in the sky during the summer months, which inceases the solar flux. However due to seasonal lag, June, July and August are the warmest months in the northern hemisphere. While December, January and February are the warmest months in the southern hemosphere. In temperate and sub-polar regions four seasons based on the Gregorian calendar are generally recognized spring, summer, autumn and winter. .  </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Season is defined as a division of the year.<ref>Definition of seasons- www.memam-webster.com Retrieved 27 April 2018.</ref> It is  based on the changes in weather, ecology and the number of daylight hours in a given region. Seasons are the result of earth’s orbit around the Sun and Earth’s axial tilt relative to the ecliptic plane.<ref>Khavrus, V.; Shelevytsky, I. (2010). "Introduction to solar motion geometry on the basis of a simple model". Physics Education. 45 (6): 641–653. Bibcode:2010PhyEd..45..641K. doi:10.1088/0031-9120/45/6/010. S2CID 120966256. Archived from the original on 2016-09-16. Retrieved 2011-05-13.</ref> In temperate and polar regions, the seasons are marked by changes in the intensity of sunlight that reaches the earth’s surface, variations of which may cause animals to undergo hibernation or to migrate and plants to be dormant. various cultures define the number and nature of seasons based on regional variations. As such there are a number of both, modern and historical cultures with varied number of seasons. The northern hemisphere experiences more direct sunlight during May, June and July as the hemisphere faces the sun. The same is true of the southern hemisphere in November, December and January. It is earth’s axial tilt that causes the sun to be higher in the sky during the summer months, which inceases the solar flux. However due to seasonal lag, June, July and August are the warmest months in the northern hemisphere. While December, January and February are the warmest months in the southern hemosphere. In temperate and sub-polar regions four seasons based on the Gregorian calendar are generally recognized spring, summer, autumn and winter. .  </div>

The Year is divided in to six season(six ritu)

The Year is divided in to six season(six ritu)

{| class="wikitable"

{| class="wikitable"

|-

|-

|rowspan="3" | '''Nothern solstice (Adanakala/Uttarayana kala)'''

|rowspan="3" | '''Nothern solstice (Adanakala/Uttarayana kala)'''

| Shishira

| [[Shishira|Shishira]]

| Magha–Phalguna

| [[Magha|Magha]] – [[Phalguna|Phalguna]]

| Mid January - Mid March

| Mid January - Mid March

| Late winter

| Late winter

|-

|-

| Vasanta

| [[Vasanta|Vasanta]]

| Chaitra Vaishakha

| [[Chaitra|Chaitra]] [[Vaishakha|Vaishakha]]

| Mid March - Mid May

| Mid March - Mid May

| Spring

| Spring

|-

|-

| Grishma

| [[Grishma|Grishma]]

| Jyeshtha Ashadha  

| [[Jaishtha|Jyeshtha]] [[Ashadha|Ashadha]]

| Mid May – Mid July

| Mid May – Mid July

| Summer

| Summer

|-

|-

|rowspan="3" | '''Southern solstice (Visarga kala/Dakshinayana)'''

|rowspan="3" | '''Southern solstice (Visarga kala/Dakshinayana)'''

| Varsha

| [[Varsha|Varsha]]

| Shravan a Bhadrapada

| [[Shravana|Shravana]] [[Bhadrapada|Bhadrapada]]

| Mid July - Mid September   

| Mid July - Mid September   

| Rainy / monsoon

| Rainy / monsoon

|-

|-

| Sharad

| [[Sharad|Sharad]]

| Ashwini Kartika

| Ashwini [[Kartika|Kartika]]

| Mid September - Mid November

| Mid September - Mid November

| Atumn

| Atumn

|-

|-

| Hemanta

| [[Hemanta|Hemanta]]

| Margashirsha Pushya

| [[Margashirsha|Margashirsha]] Pushya

| Mid November - Mid January

| Mid November - Mid January

| Early winter

| Early winter

<li style="font-weight: bold;">Winter<br/><span style="font-weight:normal">Weather is cold, the air or wind element is high. So one should stay nourished and warm, and work on increasing physical stamina. Apply sesame or almond oil to Skin and hair  to prevent the tissues from drying.</span></li>

<li style="font-weight: bold;">Winter<br/><span style="font-weight:normal">Weather is cold, the air or wind element is high. So one should stay nourished and warm, and work on increasing physical stamina. Apply sesame or almond oil to Skin and hair  to prevent the tissues from drying.</span></li>

'''Diet:''' 

'''Diet:''' 

<ul><li>Eat fats and foods like homemade butter, ghee, olive oil, dry fruits, dates and honey.</li>

<ul><li>Eat fats and foods like homemade butter, [[Ghee|ghee]], olive oil, dry fruits, dates and honey.</li>

<li>Mustard, spinach, fenugreek, amaranthus, chinopodium, beens, raddish, carrots, onion , garlic, ash guard, yam.</li>

<li>Mustard, spinach, fenugreek, amaranthus, chinopodium, beens, raddish, carrots, onion , garlic, ash guard, yam.</li>

<li>Fruits like Orange, guava, strawberrys, grapes, figs and Indian gooseberry & hot beverages</li></ul>

<li>Fruits like Orange, guava, strawberrys, grapes, figs and Indian gooseberry & hot beverages</li></ul>

'''Lifestyle :'''

'''Lifestyle :'''

<ul><li>Less physical exercise and avoid barefoot walking</li></ul>

<ul><li>Less physical exercise and avoid barefoot walking</li></ul>

<li style="font-weight: bold;">Summer<br/><span style="font-weight:normal">During this season fire and air energies dominate, inside and outside the body. This gives rise to heat and dryness. So it is important to keep light and hydrated.</span></li>

<li style="font-weight: bold;">Summer<br/><span style="font-weight:normal">During this season fire and air energies dominate, inside and outside the [[Sharira|body]]. This gives rise to heat and dryness. So it is important to keep light and hydrated.</span></li>

'''Diet:''' 

'''Diet:''' 

<ul><li>The foods consumed should be light, cool and non-greasy.</li>

<ul><li>The foods consumed should be light, cool and non-greasy.</li>

<li>Include more fresh fruits, veggies, juices, herbs and leafy greens, pumpkin, brinjal, jackfruit mango, melons, Indian blackberry, cashew , palm fruit and lots of coconut water</li>

<li>Include more fresh fruits, veggies, juices, herbs and leafy greens, pumpkin, brinjal, jackfruit mango, melons, Indian blackberry, cashew, palm fruit and lots of coconut water</li>

<li>Avoid sour and spicy foods.</li></ul>

<li>Avoid sour and spicy foods.</li></ul>

'''Lifestyle :'''

'''Lifestyle :'''

! Unwholesome lifestyle

! Unwholesome lifestyle

|-

|-

| Early winter (Hemanta)

| Early winter ([[Hemanta|Hemanta]])

| Foods predominant of sweet, sour& salt<br/>Fatty foods (Unctous) <br/>Milk & milk products <br/>Sugarcane products <br/>Cereals like New rice, wheat & flour preparations <br/>Pulses like blackgram (Masha) & Sesame (Tila) <br/>Meat & meat soup of aquatic animals <br/>Madira& seedhu (Wine prepared from sugar cane juice) type of alcohol &  Honey   

| Foods predominant of [[Madhura|sweet]], sour & salt<br/>Fatty foods (Unctous) <br/>Milk & milk products <br/>Sugarcane products <br/>Cereals like New rice, wheat & flour preparations <br/>Pulses like blackgram ([[Masha|Masha]]) & Sesame (Tila) <br/>Meat & meat soup of aquatic animals <br/>[[Madira|Madira]] & seedhu (Wine prepared from sugar cane juice) type of alcohol &  Honey   

| Full body oil massage & powder massage  <br/>Head massage <br/>Using room heaters  <br/>Wearing heavy and warm cloths  <br/>Wrapping the body with silken cloth &blankets <br/>Warm water bath <br/>Anointing body with saffron & Aquilaria agallocha(Agaru) paste <br/>Use of medicated smoking  <br/>Physical exercise  <br/>Sun bath <br/>Excessive sexual intercourse   

| Full [[Sharira|body]] oil massage & powder massage  <br/>Head massage <br/>Using room heaters  <br/>Wearing heavy and warm cloths  <br/>Wrapping the body with silken cloth &blankets <br/>Warm water bath <br/>Anointing body with saffron & Aquilaria agallocha(Agaru) paste <br/>Use of medicated smoking  <br/>Physical exercise  <br/>Sun bath <br/>Excessive sexual intercourse   

| Foods which are easily digestible and likely to vitiate vata <br/>Foods which are  cold & dry  in nature  <br/>Avoid underfeeding (Pramitahara) <br/>Intake of gruels <br/>Food which causes indigestion <br/>Cold drinks   

| Foods which are easily digestible and likely to vitiate [[Vata dosha|vata]] <br/>Foods which are  cold & dry  in nature  <br/>Avoid underfeeding (Pramitahara) <br/>Intake of gruels <br/>Food which causes indigestion <br/>Cold drinks   

| Exposing to strong & cold wind(waves) <br/>Day sleep   

| Exposing to strong & cold wind(waves) <br/>Day [[Nidra|sleep]]  

|-

|-

| Late winter (Shishira)  

| Late winter (Shishira)  

| colspan="4" | Similar in nature of early winter except more dryness in the body and more cold because of cloud, wind and rains prevail. So in this season entire prescription of early winter regimen should be followed. Cereals and pulses, wheat/gram flour products, new rice, corn and others are prescribed. Even Ginger,Garlic, fruits of termianalia chebula, fruits of piper longum, sugarcane products, milk and milk products are advised in the diet. <br/>In this season speciallly spending more time in windless & warm houses, avoiding foods & drinks possessed of pungent, bitter & astringent taste and as well as cold diet and drinks are prohibited and sleep at late night should be avoided.   

| colspan="4" | Similar in nature of early winter except more dryness in the [[Sharira|body]] and more cold because of cloud, wind and rains prevail. So in this season entire prescription of early winter regimen should be followed. Cereals and pulses, wheat/gram flour products, new rice, corn and others are prescribed. Even Ginger, Garlic, fruits of termianalia chebula, fruits of piper longum, sugarcane products, milk and milk products are advised in the diet. <br/>In this season speciallly spending more time in windless & warm houses, avoiding foods & drinks possessed of [[Katu|pungent]], [[Tikta|bitter]] & [[Kashaya|astringent]] taste and as well as cold diet and drinks are prohibited and sleep at late night should be avoided.   

|-

|-

| Spring (Vasanta)

| Spring (Vasanta)

| Foods predominant in pungent, bitter and astringent taste <br/>Easily digestible foods  <br/>Cereals like Barley, wheat, Sashtika shali (Rice- oryza sativum which is harvested in 60days)), maize (zea mays) neevara, kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) <br/>Pulses like  greengram, lentil (Lens culinaris),  . <br/>Bitter taste Vegetables like Patola (Tricosanthese diocia, Nimba(Azadiracta indica) leaves, Vartaka (Brinjal). <br/>Meats of easily digestible like Rabbit (sasha) etc,.. <br/>Bevarages- Sringaverambu(Water prepared by adding ginger), Madhavambu (Water adding honey) etc. can be used .  <br/>Honey and different fermented beverages like Asava & Arishta (self generated alcholic medicinal preparation) , Seedhu (alcoholic preparation by using sugarcane),  <br/>Mridvika (wine prepared by using grapes) should be used  

| Foods predominant in [[Katu|pungent]], [[Tikta|bitter]] and [[Kashaya|astringent]] taste <br/>Easily digestible foods  <br/>Cereals like Barley, wheat, Sashtika shali (Rice- oryza sativum which is harvested in 60days)), maize (zea mays) neevara, kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) <br/>Pulses like  greengram, lentil (Lens culinaris),  . <br/>Bitter taste Vegetables like Patola (Tricosanthese diocia, Nimba(Azadiracta indica) leaves, Vartaka (Brinjal). <br/>Meats of easily digestible like Rabbit (sasha) etc,.. <br/>Bevarages- Sringaverambu(Water prepared by adding ginger), Madhavambu (Water adding honey) etc. can be used .  <br/>Honey and different fermented beverages like Asava & [[Arishta|Arishta]] (self generated alcholic medicinal preparation), Seedhu (alcoholic preparation by using sugarcane),  <br/>Mridvika (wine prepared by using grapes) should be used  

| Physical exercise, Powder massage, medicated smoking, gargling  <br/>Using warm water all purposes <br/>Bath with warm water  <br/>Smearing body with santalum and aqualaria <br/>Panchakrma therapies like emesis, purgation and enema   

| Physical exercise, Powder massage, medicated smoking, gargling  <br/>Using warm water all purposes <br/>Bath with warm water  <br/>Smearing [[Sharira|body]] with santalum and aqualaria <br/>[[Panchakarma|Panchakrma]] therapies like [[Vamana|emesis]], [[Virechana|purgation]] and [[Basti|enema]]  

| Foods which are heavy to digest Foods which are Sweet, Sour , cold (Sheeta) unctuous, heavy(Guru), Liquid items Foods which are increases kapha <br/>New grains , Curds and  cold drinks   

| Foods which are heavy to digest Foods which are [[Madhura|Sweet]], [[Amla|Sour]], [[Sheeta|cold (Sheeta)]] unctuous, heavy(Guru), Liquid items Foods which are increases kapha <br/>New grains , Curds and  cold drinks   

| Day sleep which increases kapha   

| Day [[Nidra|sleep]] which increases [[Kapha dosha|kapha]]  

|-

|-

| Summer (Greeshma)  

| Summer ([[Grishma|Greeshma]])  

| Foods predominant of Sweet taste , Cold, Liquid, unctuous and light(Easily digestible food) like rice, lentil etc,..  Food added with ghee, sweet and liquids, followed by boiled milk sweetned with sugar at night. <br/>Beverages : Fragrant and cold drinks mixed with sugar shoud be used, cold water, fruit juices such as mago juice , meat soup and churned curd with pepper <br/>Coconut water is useful. <br/>Alcoholic drinks are generally prohibited however those who are addicted to drinking in smaller quantity is prescribed but it should be mixed with plenty of water  During night one should take milk with sugar candy.   

| Foods predominant of [[Madhura|Sweet]] taste , Cold, Liquid, unctuous and light(Easily digestible food) like rice, lentil etc,..  Food added with [[Ghee|ghee]], [[Madhura|sweet]] and liquids, followed by boiled milk sweetned with sugar at night. <br/>Beverages : Fragrant and cold drinks mixed with sugar shoud be used, cold water, fruit juices such as mago juice, meat soup and churned curd with pepper <br/>Coconut water is useful. <br/>Alcoholic drinks are generally prohibited however those who are addicted to drinking in smaller quantity is prescribed but it should be mixed with plenty of water  During night one should take milk with sugar candy.   

| Exposing to cold breeze  <br/>Staying in cool places <br/>Recreation in the lakes, wells , rivers and forests. <br/>Dress should be of very thin cloth and sprinkled with perfumes. <br/>Sleeping in apartment equipped with water fountains during day and during nights in an open area <br/>Anointing body with camphor and sandal paste  <br/>Day time sleep  

| Exposing to cold breeze  <br/>Staying in cool places <br/>Recreation in the lakes, wells , rivers and forests. <br/>Dress should be of very thin cloth and sprinkled with perfumes. <br/>Sleeping in apartment equipped with water fountains during day and during nights in an open area <br/>Anointing [[Sharira|body]] with camphor and sandal paste  <br/>Day time sleep  

| Foods predominant taste of pungent, sour and salty Alcoholic drinks should not be taken or taken in very little quantity or with addition of large quantity of water  

| Foods predominant taste of [[Katu|pungent]], [[Amla|sour]] and [[Lavana|salty]] Alcoholic drinks should not be taken or taken in very little quantity or with addition of large quantity of water  

| Excessive physical exercise , Basking in sun <br/>Exertional activities or hard work   <br/>Excessive Sexual intercourse <br/>Drying regimen   

| Excessive physical exercise , Basking in sun <br/>Exertional activities or hard work <br/>Excessive Sexual intercourse <br/>Drying regimen   

|-

|-

| Rainy  (Varsha ritu)

| Rainy  ([[Varsha|Varsha]] ritu)

| Foods with predominant taste of sour& salt  <br/>Uunctous foods  . <br/>Foods like Barley, Rice & Wheat <br/>Meat of arid animals/Meat soup <br/>Yusha (Soups prepared with pulses)/  Vegetables soup <br/>Alcoholic preparations like madhvika (wine prepared from madhuka indica) or arishta (fermented preparations) type of liquor,  <br/>Boiled and cooled water  <br/>In all preparations honey should  be added   

| Foods with predominant taste of [[Amla|sour]] & [[Lavana|salt]] <br/>Uunctous foods  . <br/>Foods like Barley, Rice & Wheat <br/>Meat of arid animals/Meat soup <br/>Yusha (Soups prepared with pulses)/  Vegetables soup <br/>Alcoholic preparations like [[Madhvika|madhvika]] (wine prepared from madhuka indica) or [[Arishta|arishta]] (fermented preparations) type of liquor,  <br/>Boiled and cooled water  <br/>In all preparations honey should  be added   

| Rubbing the body with unctuous material(oil) after the bath <br/>Anointing of body with aqualaria  <br/>Sleeping in upper storied cool room to avoid moisture with heavy coverings <br/>Medicated enema(Basti)  

| Rubbing the [[Sharira|body]] with unctuous material(oil) after the bath <br/>Anointing of [[Sharira|body]] with aqualaria  <br/>Sleeping in upper storied cool room to avoid moisture with heavy coverings <br/>Medicated [[Basti|enema(Basti)]]

| Foods which are heavy to digest like meat  <br/>River water  <br/>Groat (Water  mixed th flour) (Mantha) <br/>Excessive intake of liquids (Ati drava)  

| Foods which are heavy to digest like meat  <br/>River water  <br/>Groat (Water  mixed th flour) ([[Mantha|Mantha]]) <br/>Excessive intake of liquids (Ati drava)  

| Sexual intercourse <br/>Exposing to dews , getting wet in rain Barefoot walking  <br/>Physical  exercise <br/>Exposure to sun rays  <br/>Staying at river bank <br/>Hard work <br/>Day sleep   

| Sexual intercourse <br/>Exposing to dews, getting wet in rain Barefoot walking  <br/>Physical  exercise <br/>Exposure to sun rays  <br/>Staying at river bank <br/>Hard work <br/>Day sleep   

|-

|-

| Autumn (Sharad ritu)  

| Autumn ([[Sharad|Sharad]] ritu)  

| Foods predominat with sweet taste , bitter tastes & Cold properties<br/>Foods which are laghu (Easy to digest) in nature <br/>Milk <br/>Sugarcane products <br/>Honey,  <br/>Cereals like Rice & wheat <br/>Pulses like Green gram <br/>Meat of wild animals like common quill, grey partridge, antelope, sheep, wapiti and rabbit,  <br/>Fruits like Amalaki(Gooseberry), vegetables like patola (Tricosanthese diocia) <br/>Honey & Sugar candy <br/>Bitter ghee  

| Foods predominat with [[Madhura|sweet]] taste, [[Tikta|bitter]] tastes & Cold properties<br/>Foods which are laghu (Easy to digest) in nature <br/>Milk <br/>Sugarcane products <br/>Honey,  <br/>Cereals like Rice & wheat <br/>Pulses like Green gram <br/>Meat of wild animals like common quill, grey partridge, antelope, sheep, wapiti and rabbit,  <br/>Fruits like [[Amalaki|Amalaki(Gooseberry)]], vegetables like [[Patola|patola (Tricosanthese diocia)]] <br/>Honey & Sugar candy <br/>[[Tikta ghee|Bitter ghee]]

| Panchakarmas like Purgation & bloodletting <br/>One should pass evenings on the upper part of house enjoying the white moon light (moon rays first three hours of night are health promotive) <br/>Body well - adorned with paste of sandal, camphor and with garlands of pearls and attractive dress <br/>One may swim in tanks decorated with lotus and lilly. <br/>Applying paste of sandal <br/>Having food only  when there is hunger   

| [[Panchakarma|Panchakarmas]] like [[Virechana|Purgation]] & bloodletting <br/>One should pass evenings on the upper part of house enjoying the white moon light (moon rays first three hours of night are health promotive) <br/>[[Sharira|Body]] well - adorned with paste of sandal, camphor and with garlands of pearls and attractive dress <br/>One may swim in tanks decorated with lotus and lilly. <br/>Applying paste of sandal <br/>Having food only  when there is hunger   

| Astringent,bitter, sour & hot substances <br/>Heavy meals <br/>Excessive oil & fat substances <br/>Strong wines <br/>Meat of aquatic and marshy animals <br/>Curds  

| [[Kashaya|Astringent]], [[Tikta|bitter]], [[Amla|sour]] & hot substances <br/>Heavy meals <br/>Excessive oil & fat substances <br/>Strong wines <br/>Meat of aquatic and marshy animals <br/>Curds  

| Day sleep<br/>Excessive Sexual intercourse <br/>Sun bath (Exposing to sun light) <br/>Exposing to frost <br/>Night awakening <br/>Excessive eating   

| Day [[Nidra|sleep]]<br/>Excessive Sexual intercourse <br/>Sun bath (Exposing to sun light) <br/>Exposing to frost <br/>Night awakening <br/>Excessive eating   

|-

|-

|}

|}

[Cha. Sa. Sutra Sthana 6/46 & Su. Sa. Uttara Tantra 64/20]  

[Cha. Sa. Sutra Sthana 6/46 & Su. Sa. Uttara Tantra 64/20]

== Contemporary approach and researches ==

== Contemporary approach and researches ==

=== Impact of seasonal variation on health: ===

=== Impact of seasonal variation on health: ===

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Three causes viz. improper union of senses with objects (asatmendriyartha samyoga), intellectual defect (prajnaparadha) and time (parinama) are responsible for manifestation of diseases. Among these, parinama or kala plays an important role in the health of the individuals. The excess (atiyoga), deficient (ayoga) and improper (mithya yoga) of kala results in dosha vitiation.  As a part of normal seasonal variation also, doshas get vitiated in the individuals. A proper management of the environmental determinants of health is essential for the promotion of positive health and thereby preventing diseases. Recognition that human health can be affected by a wide range of ecological disruptions, consequent upon climate change, is a recent development in modern scientific world. But the idea that human health and disease are linked to climate probably predates written history. The Greek physician Hippocrates (about 400 BC) related epidemics to seasonal weather changes, stating that physicians should have “due regard to the seasons of the year, and the diseases which they produce, and to the states of the wind peculiar to each country and the qualities of its water”. He exhorts them to take note of “the water which people use, whether they be marshy and soft, or hard and running from elevated and rocky situations, and unfit for cooking,” and to observe “the localities of towns, and of the surrounding country, whether they are low or high, hot or cold, wet or dry and of the diet and regimen of the inhabitants”<ref>Hippocrates. Airs, waters and places. An essay on the influence of climate, water supply and situation on health. In: Hippocratic Writings. Lloyd G.E.R. ed. London, UK, Penguin, 1978.</ref> <br/>All these facts are well studied and presented by Ayurveda scientists along with the management protocol. More over recent studies have shown changes in the biochemical parameters along with seasonal variations. The physical health impacts of climate change, especially infections, allergies, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are now well recognized. These objective evidences can be considered as a reflection of the physiological imbalance occurring in the equilibrium of tridoşha due to seasonal variations, progressing to a pathological state as a result of unhealthy diet and regimen. So, in order to prevent seasonal outbreak of diseases, a regimen should be designed, including currently available facilities. For that a thorough knowledge of the physiological imbalances occurring in various seasons in terms of dosha vitiation, status of agni and bala are very essential.<br/>The season is a variation for a particular time which includes environmental factors which consist of nature of land, water, atmospheric temperature, humidity, wind, rain, clouds and atmospheric pressure. All these factors undergo a continous change and at a time, when no two movements are exactly alike in a given place.<ref>Jangid C, Vyas HA, Dwivedi RR. Concept of Ritus and their effect on Bala. AYU Int Res J Ayurveda. 2009; 30:11–5).</ref> <br/>Some studies are carried out to eshtablish the influence of seasonal changes on the  development of opportunistic diseases. These show the effect of photo period on immune function and hormone synthesis has a positive result. It also showed that time of the year is important in changing the glucocortcoid concentrations in unstressed and stressed animals.<ref>Nelson RJ, Demas GE. Seasonal changes in immune function3. Q Rev Biol. 1996; 71:511–48.</ref><ref name="ref6">Romero LM. Seasonal changes in plasma gluco-corticoid concentrations in free-living vertebrates. Sci Direct. 2002;9:1147–51</ref><br/>A study was conducted to assess the biophysical, and biochemical changes and provocation of tridosha in ritusandhi. It shows that there was a increasing and decreasing pattern in biochemical changes within normal variations, but the changes were not remarkable. The study is also evident of occuring jwara (fever), pratishyaya (rhinitis), alasya (tiredness) frequently with dominance of vata and kapha provocation.<ref name="ref7">Mallika KJ. Critical study of Swastha-Catuska w.s.r. to Biophysical and Biochemical changes in Rtusandhi. MD (Ayu) Thesis. Jamnagar: Gujarat Ayurved University; 2002.</ref></br>Based on the principles of ritucharya, a study has been conducted on healthy volunteers to assess the bala (physical strength) in different ritus (seasons). The study showed that maximum bala was seen during winter (hemanta ritu), moderate bala during spring (vasanta ritu) and minimum bala during rainy season (vaasha ritu).<ref name="ref6"/> Other systems of medicine also considered the effect of seasons on health. For instance, father of modern medicine, Hippocrates says that whoever wishes to investigate medicine properly should proceed thus in the first place to consider the seasons of the year and what affects of each of them produces. Tibetian system also believes that seasonal regimens are powerful instruments in prevention of diseases.<ref name="ref7"/> </br>Variation in state of dosha in different ritu results in diseases if the prescribed regiment is not followed. For example, increased occurrence of flu, dry skin in winter, heat stroke in summer, pollen allergy in spring, high incidence of air and water borne diseases in rainy season and skin diseases in autumn are observed.<ref>Valiathan MS. Towards Ayurvedic Biology ,Bangalore: Indian Academy of Sciences; 2006.</ref> Few studies show positive correlation between attack of asthma in winter season. Contemporary science also have evidences regarding seasonal affectective disorders (SADs).<ref>Tabers Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary. 18th ed. New Delhi: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publisher (P) Ltd; 2000</ref>  <br/>Understainding of Ayurvedic concept of seasonal divisions (ritu vibhaga) is mainly based on specific characteristic features of seasons (lakshanas), based on the hindu calendar months (masa) and stars (rashi). In present scenario, the characteristic features of classically mentioned characteristic features are not uniform all over the geaographical areas. But still specific features during seasons based on biological and external environmental changes during the each seasons are observed. In this connection, a few reviews  eshtablish the relation between ritus and gut microbial changes and their effect on health. The food habits and lifestyle changes during each season (ritu) changes the free living microorganism in gut. This increases individual susceptibility to inflammatory as well as metabolic diseases such as  non- communicable diseases. Adopting a proper seasonal regimen including seasonal purification enhances the gut acclimatization, thus prevent the  pathological manifestation of seasonal diseases and maintain health.<ref>Deppti R, Vandana Rani .M, Delvin T Robin, Anushree Dilip. Adopting seasonal regimen (Ritucharya) to modulate the seasonal variation in gut microbiome. Journal of ethics food : 2-2021</ref> <br/>A seasonal change in immune function has also been observed by researchers during animal studies. Immunological parameters like spleen mass, white blood cells, cellular immunity, IgG and IgM levels showed seasonal changes. Cellular immunity was found to be high in winter than in summer.<ref>De Li Xu,Xiao Kai Hu, Yufen Tian. Seasonal variation in cellular and humaoral immunity in male striped hamsters, Biology, open 2018,7 bio038489,doi- 10.1242/bio 03848</ref> </div>

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Three causes viz. improper union of senses with objects ([[Asatmendriyarthasamyoga|asatmendriyartha samyoga]]), intellectual defect ([[Prajnaparadha|prajnaparadha]]) and time ([[Parinama|parinama]]) are responsible for manifestation of [[Vyadhi|diseases]]. Among these, [[Parinama|parinama]] or [[Kala|kala]] plays an important role in the health of the individuals. The excess (atiyoga), deficient (ayoga) and improper (mithya yoga) of [[Kala|kala]] results in [[Dosha|dosha]] vitiation.  As a part of normal seasonal variation also, [[Dosha|doshas]] get vitiated in the individuals. A proper management of the environmental determinants of health is essential for the promotion of positive health and thereby preventing [[Vyadhi|diseases]]. Recognition that human health can be affected by a wide range of ecological disruptions, consequent upon climate change, is a recent development in modern scientific world. But the idea that human health and [[Vyadhi|disease]] are linked to climate probably predates written history. The Greek physician Hippocrates (about 400 BC) related epidemics to seasonal weather changes, stating that physicians should have “''due regard to the seasons of the year, and the [[Vyadhi|diseases]] which they produce, and to the states of the wind peculiar to each country and the qualities of its water''”. He exhorts them to take note of “''the water which people use, whether they be marshy and soft, or hard and running from elevated and rocky situations, and unfit for cooking,''” and to observe “the localities of towns, and of the surrounding country, whether they are low or high, hot or cold, wet or dry and of the diet and regimen of the inhabitants”<ref>Hippocrates. Airs, waters and places. An essay on the influence of climate, water supply and situation on health. In: Hippocratic Writings. Lloyd G.E.R. ed. London, UK, Penguin, 1978.</ref> <br/>All these facts are well studied and presented by Ayurveda scientists along with the management protocol. More over recent studies have shown changes in the biochemical parameters along with seasonal variations. The physical health impacts of climate change, especially infections, allergies, respiratory and cardiovascular [[Vyadhi|diseases]] are now well recognized. These objective evidences can be considered as a reflection of the physiological imbalance occurring in the equilibrium of [[tridosha]] due to seasonal variations, progressing to a pathological state as a result of unhealthy diet and regimen. So, in order to prevent seasonal outbreak of [[Vyadhi|diseases]], a regimen should be designed, including currently available facilities. For that a thorough knowledge of the physiological imbalances occurring in various seasons in terms of [[Dosha|dosha]] vitiation, status of [[Agni|agni]] and [[Bala|bala]] are very essential.<br/>The season is a variation for a particular time which includes environmental factors which consist of nature of land, water, atmospheric temperature, humidity, wind, rain, clouds and atmospheric pressure. All these factors undergo a continuous change and at a time, when no two movements are exactly alike in a given place.<ref>Jangid C, Vyas HA, Dwivedi RR. Concept of Ritus and their effect on Bala. AYU Int Res J Ayurveda. 2009; 30:11–5).</ref> <br/>Some studies are carried out to establish the influence of seasonal changes on the  development of opportunistic [[Vyadhi|diseases]]. These show the effect of photo period on immune function and hormone synthesis has a positive result. It also showed that time of the year is important in changing the glucocortcoid concentrations in unstressed and stressed animals.<ref>Nelson RJ, Demas GE. Seasonal changes in immune function3. Q Rev Biol. 1996; 71:511–48.</ref><ref name="ref6">Romero LM. Seasonal changes in plasma gluco-corticoid concentrations in free-living vertebrates. Sci Direct. 2002;9:1147–51</ref><br/>A study was conducted to assess the biophysical, and biochemical changes and provocation of [[Tridosha|tridosha]] in [[Ritusandhi|ritusandhi]]. It shows that there was a increasing and decreasing pattern in biochemical changes within normal variations, but the changes were not remarkable. The study is also evident of occuring [[Jwara|jwara (fever)]], pratishyaya (rhinitis), alasya (tiredness) frequently with dominance of [[Vata dosha|vata]] and [[Kapha dosha|kapha]] provocation.<ref name="ref7">Mallika KJ. Critical study of Swastha-Catuska w.s.r. to Biophysical and Biochemical changes in Rtusandhi. MD (Ayu) Thesis. Jamnagar: Gujarat Ayurved University; 2002.</ref></br>Based on the principles of ritucharya, a study has been conducted on healthy volunteers to assess the [[Bala|bala]] (physical strength) in different ritus (seasons). The study showed that maximum [[Bala|bala]] was seen during winter ([[Hemanta|hemanta]] ritu), moderate [[Bala|bala]] during spring ([[Vasanta|vasanta]] ritu) and minimum [[Bala|bala]] during rainy season ([[varsha]] ritu).<ref name="ref6"/> Other systems of medicine also considered the effect of seasons on health. For instance, father of modern medicine, Hippocrates says that whoever wishes to investigate medicine properly should proceed thus in the first place to consider the seasons of the year and what affects of each of them produces. Tibetian system also believes that seasonal regimens are powerful instruments in prevention of [[Vyadhi|diseases]].<ref name="ref7"/> </br>Variation in state of [[Dosha|dosha]] in different ritu results in [[Vyadhi|diseases]] if the prescribed regiment is not followed. For example, increased occurrence of flu, dry skin in winter, heat stroke in summer, pollen allergy in spring, high incidence of air and water borne [[Vyadhi|diseases]] in rainy season and skin [[Vyadhi|diseases]] in autumn are observed.<ref>Valiathan MS. Towards Ayurvedic Biology ,Bangalore: Indian Academy of Sciences; 2006.</ref> Few studies show positive correlation between attack of asthma in winter season. Contemporary science also have evidences regarding seasonal affective disorders (SADs).<ref>Tabers Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary. 18th ed. New Delhi: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publisher (P) Ltd; 2000</ref>  <br/>Understainding of Ayurvedic concept of seasonal divisions (ritu vibhaga) is mainly based on specific characteristic features of seasons (lakshanas), based on the hindu calendar months ([[Masa|masa]]) and stars ([[Rashi|rashi]]). In present scenario, the characteristic features of classically mentioned characteristic features are not uniform all over the geaographical areas. But still specific features during seasons based on biological and external environmental changes during the each seasons are observed. In this connection, a few reviews  eshtablish the relation between ritus and gut microbial changes and their effect on health. The food habits and lifestyle changes during each season (ritu) changes the free living microorganism in gut. This increases individual susceptibility to inflammatory as well as metabolic [[Vyadhi|diseases]] such as  non- communicable diseases. Adopting a proper seasonal regimen including seasonal purification enhances the gut acclimatization, thus prevent the  pathological manifestation of seasonal [[Vyadhi|diseases]] and maintain health.<ref>Deppti R, Vandana Rani .M, Delvin T Robin, Anushree Dilip. Adopting seasonal regimen (Ritucharya) to modulate the seasonal variation in gut microbiome. Journal of ethics food : 2-2021</ref> <br/>A seasonal change in immune function has also been observed by researchers during animal studies. Immunological parameters like spleen mass, white blood cells, cellular immunity, IgG and IgM levels showed seasonal changes. Cellular immunity was found to be high in winter than in summer.<ref>De Li Xu,Xiao Kai Hu, Yufen Tian. Seasonal variation in cellular and humaoral immunity in male striped hamsters, Biology, open 2018,7 bio038489,doi- 10.1242/bio 03848</ref> </div>

===Clinical researches on ritucharya ===

===Clinical researches on ritucharya ===

<ol style='text-align:justify;'><li>Abhashankar (2021). A preventive trial on ritucharya in seasonal disease of Greeshma ritu- A non-randomized controlled trial . PG Dissertation, KUHS, Kerala.</li>

<ol style='text-align:justify;'><li>Abha shankar (2021). A preventive trial on ritucharya in seasonal disease of Greeshma ritu- A non-randomized controlled trial . PG Dissertation, KUHS, Kerala.</li>

<li>Ramesh Kumar L (2016). Concept of Kaala in relation to ecological, physiological and biochemical changes in Greeshma ritu. PhD Thesis, GAU, Jamnagar, Gujarat.</li>

<li>Ramesh Kumar L (2016). Concept of Kaala in relation to ecological, physiological and biochemical changes in Greeshma ritu. PhD Thesis, GAU, Jamnagar, Gujarat.</li>

<li>Lakshmi V. (2012). An interventional trial on preomotion of positive health through seasonal purification w.s.r toSarat Ritu. PG Dissertation, KUHS, Kerala</li>

<li>Lakshmi V. (2012). An interventional trial on preomotion of positive health through seasonal purification w.s.r toSarat Ritu. PG Dissertation, KUHS, Kerala</li>

<li>Seasonal regimen in Autumn incuding Hamsodaka [A.Hr.Sutra Sthana 3/49-54]</li>

<li>Seasonal regimen in Autumn incuding Hamsodaka [A.Hr.Sutra Sthana 3/49-54]</li>

<li>The rasa and properties of food items recommended for use in each ritu [A.Hr.Sutra Sthana 3/54-55].</li></ul>

<li>The rasa and properties of food items recommended for use in each ritu [A.Hr.Sutra Sthana 3/54-55].</li></ul>

<li style="font-weight: bold;">Sarangadhara Samhita (14 AD):</li>

<li style="font-weight: bold;">Sharangadhara Samhita (14 AD):</li>

<ul><li>Dosha accumulation, increase and decrease as per seasons [Sha.Sa. 2/27-28]</li>

<ul><li>Dosha accumulation, increase and decrease as per seasons [Sha.Sa. 2/27-28]</li>

<li>Seasons and status of tridoshas : Movement of the sun from one stellar constellation to the other makes for the six seasons during which the trodosas undergo mild increase, profound increase and derease to normal [Sha.Sa. 2/25]</li>

<li>Seasons and status of tridoshas : Movement of the sun from one stellar constellation to the other makes for the six seasons during which the trodosas undergo mild increase, profound increase and derease to normal [Sha.Sa. 2/25]</li>